Affectionately known as “Mease” to family and friends, Mary Theresa was born in South Bend, Ind., on June 25, 1924, to Bernard John and Helen Holland Voll.

Mary Theresa was educated by the Sisters of the Holy Cross on the campus of Saint Mary’s from grade school through college, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Ind.

On Jan. 21, 1950, Mary Theresa married George Clarke Coquillard in the Holy Ghost Chapel at Saint Mary’s College. She and George made their home in South Bend for several years, during which time Mary Theresa was active in the community and was a member of Junior League and the Ladybug Bridge Club. Mary Theresa relished a competitive game of golf and could often be found on the golf course at the South Bend Country Club. A gourmet cook, Mary Theresa delighted in experimenting with interesting new recipes and entertaining family and friends in her home.

George’s employment relocated them to several cities including Los Angeles and La Joya, Calif.; Chagrin Falls, Ohio; and Montpelier, Vt. They retired in Punta Vedra, Fla., and eventually returned to South Bend in 2008. Mary Theresa took a keen interest in the cultural treasures of each locality and was a passionate patron of the arts. She enjoyed and supported theater, the symphony, museums and galleries.

Mary Theresa was a benefactor to many people. If she learned of someone needing educational assistance or lacking the means to accomplish a significant goal, she would quietly provide the necessary resources, often anonymously.

As a child, Mary Theresa demonstrated an independent spirit and an ardent sense of adventure, traits that remained constant during her life. An enthusiastic traveler, Mary Theresa and George traveled extensively throughout the United States and around the world, experiencing a rich variety of customs and cultures.

Mary Theresa is survived by George, her husband of 63 years; her brother, William H. Voll; 28 nieces and nephews; numerous extended family members and very special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Helen Voll, and her sister, Helen Georgina Voll.

The family expresses deep gratitude to the staff of Holy Cross Village for their assistance and many kindnesses over the past five years and to The Center for Hospice Care for their compassionate attention.

A Mass celebrating the life of Mary Theresa Coquillard will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2013, at 1 p.m. on the campus of Saint Mary’s at the Church of Our Lady of Loretto, Route 933, Notre Dame, Ind. Burial will be at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Notre Dame, Ind.